New highways partnership for County Council

Plans for a new partnership to deliver excellent highways services, support ambitious growth plans and put residents at the heart of shaping investment in Staffordshire moved a step closer today.

Staffordshire County Council unveiled Amey as its preferred delivery partner to provide integrated highways se rvices and deliver savings for the county’s taxpayers at the same time.

If approved, the initial 10-year deal will see Amey maintaining the council’s 6,000km of highways, delivering major flagship schemes and contributing to the running of the county’s street lighting and rights of way and country park maintenance.

Mark Winnington, Cabinet Member for Economy and Infrastructure, said: “With the current maintenance contract coming to end this was the perfect opportunity to look at how we could achieve a better deal for Staffordshire and better value for money for taxpayers.

“We will be working closely with our new partner to ensure the investment of every single pound helps deliver excellent highways services, fresh opportunities for jobs through flagship developments and creates a truly connected county for the people of Staffordshire.

“From pothole repairs to winter gritting to delivering major projects, we have negotiated hard to get the maximum value we can, without compromising on quality, and are committed through this partnership to ensuring residents have an even greater say in shaping services and priorities.

“By joining forces with a strategic partner we will be combining our experience, creativity and innovative approach with the expertise, knowledge and resources of the private sector to get the best deal for the county and our residents.”

If the preferred delivery partner is accepted by Cabinet in February, Amey’s contract will run from 2014, for ten years and could be valued up to £80m per year. The final value however is dependent on the final scope of the partnership.

There is provision to extend for a further ten years subject to meeting performance criteria. Staffordshire County Council will retain 60 per cent voting control in the partnership. Amey acquired Enterprise, the council’s current provider for maintenance, in April 2013.

Mel Ewell, Chief Executive for Amey, said: “We are delighted to have been announced as the preferred bidder for this pioneering partnership with Staffordshire County Council.

“This is a unique opportunity to work with a progressive council to develop a relationship that will enhance services for the people of Staffordshire.

“We will place a strong focus on supporting and investing in the local community for many years to come, to promote prosperity and skills across the county.”